Nordic TRADITION ANIMISM


Connection through rituals to beings of the earth

as well as nature spirits.

WHAT IS Nordic TRADITION ANIMISM?

On the Danish version of this website, we call it “Nordisk Naturtro”, and we haven’t found an English translation that does that justice. Nordisk Naturtro is rooted in animism, which is based on the spiritual belief that everything in nature is animate and that the spirits of nature are in everything that surrounds us. Our main focus is our local environment and having a respectful relationship with the wider community of beings, whether human, animal, plant, stream, rock and non-visible creatures, such as ancestors, deities or land guardians. 

Why do we call it Nordic Tradition Animism?

We are inspired by ancient Nordic traditions, linked to Norse mythology and shamanism. Although we try to combine historical information about how our ancestors practiced rituals and ancient magical traditions, we don't try historical reenactment, but rather find ways to combine it in our modern life. We recognise that we will probably never be able to understand or connect their way of worship and ritual, but we try to create our own with respect for the sources we have.

Ancient magical traditions.

We have four main magical traditions from the original sources. They all engage with nature and can be used to gain wisdom, insight, healing and health, for guidance and connection to the spirits and to maintain power and balance.

We run workshops in all four traditions or “branches of Norse Magic”:

UTesiTTing

SEJD

GALDER

RUNES

a pagan custom to seek insight and receive visions.

trance through chanting to get visions, manifest energy or generate power.

a primal song that uses symbols and verses which manifest energies and power.

used for insight, healing and clarity.

“Hil, Dag!
Hil, Dags Sönner!
Hil, Nat og Nats Datter!
Skuer hid til os
med milde Öjne,
og giver de siddende Sejr.

Hil jer, Aser!
Hil jer, Asynjer!
Hil dig, velsignelsesrige Jord!
Tale og Mandevid
har de givet dig og mig
og lægende hender, mens vi lever”

- Sigerdrivemål 3 & 4

AN OVERVIEW OF PRACTICES WE TEACH IN OUR WORKSHOPS

  • Sejd

    Seid, Norse seið, is a form of Nordic magic and spiritual practice that originates from ancient Norse culture. It has many similarities with shamanism, which involves connecting and working with the spirit world. Seid was primarily performed by women known as "sejdkoner" or "sejdkvinder" and was considered a powerful and respected practice. It often involved the use of trance singing, chants, drums and other practices to achieve an altered state of consciousness. After the introduction of Christianity the practice of Seid became less widespread. However, there are still those who study and practice Seid today as part of their connection to Nordic spirituality and heritage.

  • Runes

    Nordic runes, also known as Elder or Younger Futhark, are a collection of ancient Germanic symbols used for writing, divination and magic by the Nordic and other Germanic peoples. In rituals, the runes can be used for various purposes such as divination, incantations, protection and in meditation. 

    It's important to note that working with runes requires knowledge, respect and understanding of their historical and cultural context. If you are interested in incorporating runes into your rituals, we recommend studying their meanings and symbolism and seeking guidance from reliable sources or experienced practitioners.

  • Galder

    Galder, or Galdr, is a form of Norse magic and song tradition. It is a practice where verses, chants or intonations are used to invoke and control magical powers. Galdr translates to "incantation" or "sorcery" and has deep roots in Norse culture. Galdr was a deeply personal and powerful practice performed by experienced practitioners, called galdr men or galdr women. 

    In modern times, there are still those who practice galdr as part of their spiritual and magical journey, and it can include the use of runes, chants, and sounds to induce specific effects or purposes.

  • Animism

    Nordic animism refers to the spiritual or religious belief that all natural elements, including plants, animals, landscapes and even objects, possess a spiritual essence or soul. It is a deeply rooted part of Norse tradition and culture.

    The practice involves reverence and respect for nature and its spiritual aspects. It recognizes that all beings and elements have their own unique energies and souls and deserve attention, care and respect. Nordic animism is therefore closely linked to the idea of living in harmony with nature and respecting its cycle and balance.

    Norse animism can be expressed through various rituals, offerings, ceremonies and personal connections to nature and its spiritual beings. It also includes the idea of seeking guidance and insight from nature and its spirits and the acknowledging of their influence in one's life.

    It is important to note that animism is not a uniform practice and can vary among different regions and cultural traditions across the world. Therefore, there are different perspectives and interpretations of animism based on local beliefs and traditions.

  • Sweat lodges

    Sweat lodge ceremonies usually take place in a special tent-like structure that is heated by pouring water on hot stones in the center of the lodge. Our ceremonies are based on Norse tradition animistic beliefs.

    The purpose of sweat lodge ceremonies can vary among different tribes and practices. In our practice, we use the sweat lodge for:

    Cleansing and renewal. Sweat lodge ceremonies are often used to cleanse both body and mind. Through the heat and steam of the hut, it is said that toxins and negative energies can be released and a sense of renewal and inner balance can be achieved.

    Spiritual connection. Sweat lodge ceremonies are also considered a way to achieve a deeper connection to the divine, to nature and to spiritual forces. By participating in the ceremony and through prayer, chanting or meditation, participants seek to connect with the sacredness of existence.

  • drum journeys

    Drum journeys are a form of shamanic practice that involves the use of drum rhythms to induce an altered state of consciousness and facilitate spiritual journeys or visions.  

    During a drum journey, the participant usually sits or lies down and listens to the drumbeat, which repeats in a monotonous and steady pulse. The beat acts as a kind of "shamanic rocket" that helps to shift ones attention and move into a trance-like state.

    In this altered state of consciousness, drum travellers may experience different types of visions, meet spiritual guides or receive insights and healing. It can be a journey to different realms of consciousness, such as the spiritual realm, deeper parts of the subconscious or into symbolic landscapes.